characteristics of historical fiction

Characteristics of Historical Fiction: Discovering the Captivating Blend of Facts and Imagination

Historical fiction is a genre that seamlessly weaves together the past and the fictional elements. This unique blend of historical facts and imaginative storytelling allows readers to immerse themselves in different time periods and experience the events, cultures, and people of the past. In this article, we will explore the key characteristics of historical fiction and recommend some notable novels and authors in this genre.

1. Thorough Research: One of the essential aspects of historical fiction is the meticulous research. Authors delve deep into historical archives, study primary sources, and consult experts to ensure the accuracy of the historical backdrop. This attention to detail transports readers to different eras and educates them about the time's customs, traditions, and challenges.

2. Authentic Setting: Historical fiction novels strive to recreate the atmosphere and ambiance of a specific time and place. From ancient civilizations to recent historical events, authors paint vivid scenes using descriptive language and imagery, allowing readers to visualize the setting and immerse themselves in the historical context.

3. Well-Developed Characters: While historical events serve as the backdrop, memorable characters drive the story forward. Authors create fictional protagonists and, at times, integrate them with real historical figures. These characters often face personal struggles against the backdrop of significant events, offering readers a relatable lens through which to view history.

4. Blending Fact and Fiction: Historical fiction strikes a delicate balance between historical accuracy and creative storytelling. Authors use their imaginative skills to fill in gaps in historical records or embellish certain aspects to create a compelling narrative. However, they ensure that the core historical events and details remain intact, as historical fiction is, ultimately, a means to educate, entertain, and enlighten readers about the past.

5. Timeless Themes and Issues: Historical fiction explores universal themes and issues that transcend time periods. Love, loss, war, survival, and identity are just a few examples. By placing these themes within historical settings, authors provide a fresh perspective and allow readers to reflect on both the past and present.

If you're interested in exploring the world of historical fiction, here are a few popular recommendations:

- "The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak: Set in Nazi Germany during World War II, this novel follows the journey of Liesel Meminger as she navigates life and finds solace in literature.
- "The Pillars of the Earth" by Ken Follett: This epic novel transports readers to twelfth-century England and chronicles the construction of a cathedral amidst political and social turmoil.
- "Wolf Hall" by Hilary Mantel: Set in Tudor England, this acclaimed novel depicts the rise of Thomas Cromwell in the court of Henry VIII, offering a unique perspective on this well-known historical period.

To delve deeper into historical fiction, there are numerous websites and online communities dedicated to the genre. Websites like Goodreads and Historical Novel Society provide comprehensive lists of recommended historical fiction novels, author interviews, and discussion groups.

In conclusion, historical fiction offers readers a captivating blend of facts and imagination. By combining thorough research, authentic settings, well-developed characters, and a merging of fact and fiction, this genre provides an engaging way to explore and understand the past while addressing timeless themes. So why not transport yourself to a different era through the pages of a historical fiction novel?
The New Legend of Yue Fei Fiction
The New Legend of Yue Fei

Yue Fei's twin brother Yue Teng was abandoned in infancy, but fortunately rescued by a kind-hearted person, who named him Prince Peng. Though Yue Fei and Prince Peng were twin brothers, their characters were vastly different. Yue Fei was calm, composed, introverted, and gentle, while Prince Peng was outgoing, strong-willed, and bold. Yue Fei was born with extraordinary strength, while Prince Peng was naturally weak. Yue Fei led the army on expeditions, while Prince Peng trained his body and martial arts in Shaolin. Through a fortuitous encounter, the brothers reunite. Due to being abandoned since childhood, Prince Peng harbored resentment and refused to join his brother in the exped

194.61 Million words | 2020-11-07 00:41Update

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Contests: 36 battles throughout Chinese history where the weak emerged victoriou Fiction
Contests: 36 battles throughout Chinese history where the weak emerged victoriou

In the countless battles throughout Chinese history, a significant portion of them were won by the weak against the strong. In the book "Struggles: Wars in Chinese History Where the Weak Overcame the Strong," we have selected a collection of classic wars that not only turned the tide and changed the course of history at that time but also had a profound impact on China's future. In these wars, we can see a group of visionary emperors such as Xiang Yu, the Hegemon-King of Western Chu; Liu Xiu, Emperor Guangwu of Han; Cao Cao, Emperor Wu of Wei; Li Shimin, Emperor Taizong of Tang;

292.74 Million words | 2020-09-13 22:08Update

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Zhaozhou Fiction
Zhaozhou

With the memories from his previous life, Lin Zhao was reborn in Donghu Town. However, the situation he faced was not optimistic. A strict and demanding stepmother suffocated him and his mother. The young man could only make a living as a cowherd in Donghu Town. Finally, one day, Lin Zhao abandoned the big blue ox he had raised for three years and walked into the not-so-distant city of Yuezhou. From then on...the world was somewhat different.

226.50 Million words | 2021-06-25 21:08Update

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Lieming. Fiction
Lieming.

"The emperor guards the country's gate, and the king dies for the dynasty!" This is the oath that the imperial family of the Great Ming Dynasty fulfills with their lives. Even as the son of a feudal lord, Zhu Ping'an carries the fierce nature and pride passed down from Emperor Taizu in his veins. In the tenth year of Chongzhen, with a single time travel, he shoulders the heavy burden of restoring the Great Ming. He fights at Fengyang, stabilizes the two prefectures, conquers the Qi and Lu regions, defeats the Liaodong, breaks through the Huanglong, and establishes his rule. With my fiery spirit, the mighty Great Ming will rewrite a splendid and heroic epic!

155.20 Million words | 2021-10-01 23:14Update

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The Grand Plan of the Late Jin Dynasty Fiction
The Grand Plan of the Late Jin Dynasty

In the late years of the Western Jin Dynasty, turmoil reigned supreme. The divine land sank into chaos, as various northern tribes bared their fangs, brandished their claws, and scrambled to devour the Central Plains. They captured and killed countless innocent people. The sound of wailing flutes and barbaric horns lingered, while the hooves of warhorses filled the air with smoke. It was during this time that a young man from another time and space emerged, his passion and determination transformed into a mighty sword. He stood against the northern invaders, ceaselessly fighting. In the midst of the Five Barbarians, amidst the sorrow of a chaotic era, through a hundred battles in the yellow sand, he sought to restore peace to the land...

124.40 Million words | 2021-03-31 10:25Update

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The Anger of the Leader Fiction
The Anger of the Leader

Modern German fan Li Mo unexpectedly travels to World War II Germany, and he is even the only son of the Fuhrer. How can he navigate in unfamiliar surroundings? How can he survive amidst the flames of war? The rumbling war tanks of the Fuhrer are crushing the world, and the German army, with the power of just one nation, challenges the entire world. My Fuhrer, this is a suicidal rhythm you're setting! Can Li Mo save those honorable, loyal, brave, and sacrificial German soldiers? Can he save that mysterious Germany, embodying arrogance, vanity, fanaticism, bravery, sincerity, rigidness, seriousness, harshness, diligence, and reflection all at once? (Disclaimer: We admire the German army, their loyalty and bravery, patriotism and dedication, strength and resilience, honor and sacrifice, as well as the unique German traits of diligence and rigor. None of these are related to Nazis or fascism. I strongly oppose mass killings and extreme racism. Looking at the current situation, our predicament resembles that of pre-war Germany. Therefore, we need to be more patriotic, stronger, braver, and more tightly united to build our great motherland.)

290.29 Million words | 2021-11-13 11:46Update

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Name of the Executioner Fiction
Name of the Executioner

A forensic doctor who traveled back to the Ming Dynasty became a renowned magistrate's assistant. He encountered various mysterious cases and used his knowledge of forensic investigation and reasoning to carefully examine and meticulously analyze the evidence. Unraveling the layers of mist, he finally unveiled the truth behind these bizarre cases one by one, revealing them to the world.

257.91 Million words | 2022-10-15 01:46Update

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The General's Everyday Rebellion. Fiction
The General's Everyday Rebellion.

General Xiaoyi, the commander-in-chief, has been in a bad mood lately, causing great concerns among the civil and military officials who fear that he may rebel if he's unhappy. No one can understand Xiaoyi's troubles, as the young emperor, his own, keeps growing more handsome, which brings him more joy. Yet, Xiaoyi, you need to calm down, the young emperor is a man! This thought crosses his mind, but his gaze can't help but linger on the increasingly charming face of the young emperor. General Xiaoyi, feeling that he has slapped himself in the face, his expression becomes even colder. Never mind, he won't make things difficult for himself; since he feels good about it, then it's fine. He will help him conquer the world and offer this picturesque kingdom to him. But what does the young emperor mean? Is he charging ahead while Xiaoyi attracts admirers from behind? The female general who likes him, the princess from the neighboring country who admires him, now

128.35 Million words | 2021-02-23 23:11Update

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Gangster Emperor Fiction
Gangster Emperor

When he was born, the rosy clouds danced and the dragons and phoenixes sang, carrying the name bestowed upon him. Who would have thought that the taller the tree, the stronger the wind blows, and he would suffer secret attacks, obscuring his brilliant talents and presenting himself as a ruffian. As the ten imperial stars converge in the sky, who is the true heaven-sent emperor? Conce

12.76 Million words | 2023-02-28 08:50Update

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Xiangba Three Kingdoms Fiction
Xiangba Three Kingdoms

Zhang Xiang, an ordinary unemployed young man, crossed over to the end of the Eastern Han Dynasty and unexpectedly became the younger brother of Zhang Fei. Liu Bei, that big-eared bandit, can forget about realizing his dream; there

309.37 Million words | 2023-01-13 02:10Update

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Emperor of the Great Tang Fiction
Emperor of the Great Tang

During the Wu Zhou period, there were internal and external troubles. Internally, there was a struggle for the throne, while externally, there were threats from the Turks, Tibetans, and the Arab Empire... Yang Chen arrived during this turbulent autumn when the Wu family held power and the Li family was in a perilous situation. As a young man named Li Longji, how can he ascend to the throne? How can he create a "prosperous era of the Kaiyuan reign"?

102.91 Million words | 2021-10-31 17:22Update

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Rebirth of a Small Country in Europe Fiction
Rebirth of a Small Country in Europe

With the construction system, I am reborn after World War II and create a strong European economy. "The Marshall Plan provided us with a foundation, but it is not the core of Nord's rise." - Joseph III, Grand Duke of Nord. "I don't really like this person because he deceived the feelings of the American people." - President of the United States. "As an important member of the European Union, it is hard for me to imagine that this country can surpass us economically." - President of France. "If there is anyone who can constantly capture the hearts of numerous Hollywood actresses, it is undoubtedly the Grand Duke of Nord." - Founder of Playboy.

480.92 Million words | 2021-07-16 02:34Update

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Tang Marquis of the First Rank Fiction
Tang Marquis of the First Rank

In the 14th year of the Zhenguan era, renowned talents emerged in the flourishing Tang Dynasty, and mighty warriors were as numerous as clouds. Emperor Taizong of Tang, Li Shimin, was in high spirits and dominated the world. In this year, Tangzhou, who had traveled through time, would use his astonishing culinary skills to conquer the Tang Dynasty and become a first-rank Duke of Tang.

462.87 Million words | 2022-09-27 08:47Update

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Confusing Your Heart: My Lord, don't be reckless. Fiction
Confusing Your Heart: My Lord, don't be reckless.

The Miss of the Prime Minister's Mansion, the future Crown Princess, was framed for adultery with a guard. She was falsely accused of treason and selling the country. The Prime Minister's Mansion was ruthlessly destroyed, and the Miss was subjected to a slow and torturous death. The national treasure, the sinking incense plaque, disappeared without a trace. Returning covered in blood, she adopted the alias of Gu Yu and became a mysterious witch. She killed the Duke, vanquished demons, helped the Crown Prince eliminate rebellious factions, and stabilized the kingdom. At the chaotic burial ground, she peeled off a piece of the Prince's skin, which incurred the Prince's wrath and a debt collection visit. Realizing she couldn't afford the consequences, she decided to run away. But the Crown Prince said, "You are destined to be my Crown Princess, and the sinking incense plaque is proof." The Prince said, "Debt must be repaid, flesh must be returned. Don't even think about running away." Gu Yu said, "Well, how about both of you come into my trap?"

264.30 Million words | 2022-01-13 20:06Update

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Gentlemen should also be cautious. Fiction
Gentlemen should also be cautious.

In the first year, when Princess Qian first met the "gentleman", he upheld justice with a resolute demeanor. She sneered, "A hypocrite." In the third year, during the struggle for succession to the throne, one wrong step resulted in complete defeat. She closed her eyes, wishing for death. The only person who came forward to protect her, at the risk of his own life, escorted her back to the capital. She scoffed lightly, "He could be considered a gentleman." In the fifth year, there was a coup d'état and the empress took the throne. She bestowed high positions, wealth, and beautiful women upon that person, but he declined everything. She furrowed her brows slightly, "Indeed, he is a gentleman." In the tenth year, she woke up in the morning, feeling sore all over her body. She gritted her teeth and cursed the person by her side, "Being a gentleman is futile!" "Three things can make an empire great again: the sword, loyal subjects, and scholars of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Daoism," he said to the empress. ------------------------- [The author has already written a 2.4-million-word masterpiece called "I Have a Sword Immortal Wife" in the fantasy and martial arts genre. You can check it out if you are in need of a good read!

92.23 Million words | 2020-11-01 15:59Update

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Where did the Seventeenth Prince escape to? Fiction
Where did the Seventeenth Prince escape to?

The seventeenth prince married her, but treated her with extreme indifference. Every night, he would be affectionate and tender, only to become a stranger the next day. "My prince, you are truly pure and innocent! Coming to my chambers every night just for 'sleeping'?" she said. Li Er protected her, his heart burning like a blazing fire, but suppressed it like eternal ice. "Aren't you here to protect me? Why do you care about my 'private life' with the prince?" The seventeenth prince's mansion was treacherous. She, who smelled no underlying forces, had to compete with the people from Ruoshui Pavilion, Qingfeng Hall, Qiufeng Tower, and Jiuzun Pagoda, step by step. If not for the task of "Chase Soul Order," she would rather be leisurely with the boy who sent her flowers, lingering in the sea of flowers every day, enjoying her freedom... Family, love, friendship, affection... Some were moving and heartbreaking, while others were hilarious and funny. Click on this, and you'll get it right

107.89 Million words | 2020-08-11 05:59Update

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Otaku Fiction
Otaku

Reborn, she, who graduated with a major in architecture in her past life, may not become a legitimate noble woman, but in this ancient era with only shabby thatched houses, she should still be considered half a technical genius. Wherever she goes, she can display her skills. Who would have expected that in the Great Rong Dynasty, everyone relies on the I Ching for divination, predicting fortunes before leaving the house, and casting a hexagram upon entering. Her father is the grand national teacher who directly controls the fate of the dynasty. Compared to her amazingly talented younger sisters, she is even more useless than a waste. Who cares if she can build tall buildings? Just as she was about to become a freeloader at home, she suddenly heard, "Two hundred taels of silver, who will build a magnificent mansion with me?" This is what they call, gold never rusts.

128.62 Million words | 2022-10-27 10:35Update

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He Overpowers Shu Fiction
He Overpowers Shu

Reborn as the son of Wei Yan, dominate the Three Kingdoms era! With the cunning Zhuge Liang, nearly supernatural in wisdom, the treacherous Sima Yi, and the ambivalent ally and enemy, the Emperor of Eastern Wu. Witness how I strategize and break through encirclements to establish dominance over the world. Join our book club at [group number], all are welcome!

327.95 Million words | 2022-12-16 19:02Update

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The Distant Little Scholar Fiction
The Distant Little Scholar

A century-old engineering student travels back in time and becomes a poor scholar. To his surprise, his mind is equipped with a library filled with all kinds of knowledge! In this life, he's determined to not only become a high-ranking official but also have fun with it. With the rising sun as his witness, Li Yi vows to take his first step in this world. 'Stop!' A stunning woman atop a tall horse orders his capture. 'Tie him up!' A group of fierce bandits charge towards him... On his wedding night, as he looks at the gorgeous woman entering his room... Li Yi's aspirations take a slight turn. Being a government official? Who cares? Becoming a noble or minister? Boring! He wants to be the king of bandits! Book club chat: [chat group], everyone is welcome to join! (Important reminder: This book is meant to be read lightheartedly, please don't take it too seriously!)

525.11 Million words | 2022-07-05 10:56Update

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Enlightenment Fiction
Enlightenment

Transferred back to the seventh year of the Chongzhen reign in the Ming Dynasty, no food, no clothes, no house to live in. Angry, rebel! Down with Chongzhen! Down with Huang Taiji! Down with the little Japanese! Down with Western powers! Down with anyone I don't like! Lend me three thousand elite soldiers and restore the mighty Chinese nation!

258.53 Million words | 2020-07-07 13:25Update

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